Ajloun: Former Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour stated on Wednesday that Jordan is steadfast in its development and reform efforts, despite the regional challenges it faces, crediting its progress to wise leadership and an informed citizenry. He made these remarks during the launch of the “Jordan Dialogues for Developing the Local Administration System” program at the Ajloun Cultural Center, an event organized by the “Let’s Participate, Let’s Form Parties” initiative.
According to Jordan News Agency, Ensour emphasized that the decentralization initiative, championed by His Majesty King Abdullah II, aims to enhance citizen participation in decision-making, particularly at the local level. He highlighted Article 111 of the Constitution, which mandates that taxes can only be imposed through a law passed by Parliament, representing the people. Ensour explained that amendments to the decentralization law now empower governors to lead official institutions in their regions, improving local governance and retaining councils at a foundational level.
Former minister Atef Odeibat addressed the significance of youth empowerment within the local administration system, asserting that young people represent the hope for change. He noted that the Royal Committee to Modernize the Political System has significantly impacted Jordan’s political landscape, with its recommendations leading to constitutional amendments and new laws. Odeibat mentioned reforms such as lowering the candidacy age to 25 and mandating a certain percentage of party founders, reforms that have garnered royal support. He underscored the necessity of engaging youth and women in political activities, pointing to the presence of capable youth models in Jordan that require encouragement.
Feryal Bani Salman, rapporteur of the Administrative Committee in the Lower House of Representatives, remarked that the symposium’s focus on legislative reform aligns with a vision led by His Majesty the King and HRH the Crown Prince, aimed at sustainable development. She emphasized the importance of an effective local system that decentralizes authority to governorates, noting that recent legislative amendments are crucial for enhancing governance and turning laws into actionable projects.
Jihad Momani, a former senator and current member of the Board of Commissioners of the Independent Election Commission, clarified that the commission’s role in the dialogue is executive, not legislative, and involves implementing laws. He shared that although specific features of the law are not yet available, the commission envisions automating procedures for candidates and deputies using modern technology and artificial intelligence, ensuring integrity, impartiality, and transparency.
Sief Bani Mustafa, head of the initiative, explained that the program aims to enhance citizen participation in developmental decision-making, broaden the authority of local administrations, and formulate a local administration law through a comprehensive national dialogue with stakeholders.
The symposium, moderated by academic Montaser Qudah, concluded with a discussion on the law, the outcomes of political modernization, and expanding the participation of youth and women in political life.